Description
Longines is one of the oldest Swiss watch manufacturers with an unparalleled history of invention, innovation, patents and awards.
Here we a have a superb large example of the classic gentleman’s 1930s, 15 Jewel, Longines Curvex lens wristwatch in solid 14ct yellow gold. The watch movement has been fully overhauled and serviced and the watch further benefits from a beautifully restored dial, fully inspected cleaned and lightly polished case, new high-quality strap and a vintage Longines presentation case.
Description
Here we have a superb, fully restored example of a gentleman’s Longines 14ct dress watch from 1937. This was a time when Longines was considered one of the top Swiss watch manufacturers and commanded huge prestige, along with high prices.
The immaculate watch we see here has a large sized 14ct yellow gold case, size 21mm in width, excluding the correct Longines crown. This may seem on the small side until one considers the corner to corner size of 36mm and length of 39mm including the hooded lugs. This watch has a gently curved profile to help follow the profile of the wrist. This is known as a ‘Curvex’ type case.
This watch is fitted with its original Longines Calibre 25.17 movement which is very highly regarded for its dependability. This watch also carries highly desirable matching serial numbers on the movement and case proving this movement is original to this watch.
The Dial
As can be seen, the salmon dial is simply beautiful. ‘Art deco’ numerals on a salmon dial with a classic 1930s subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock. The very attractive dial is complemented with delightful blued steel Gothic style hands which look just wonderful!
The original dial has been restored to the very highest standards and now looks almost new. The hands are also in perfect condition, as is the curved lens.
The Case
This is a high style case with a slightly curved profile and a curved lens, which, as mentioned above, is known as a ‘Curvex’ case. It also has stunning hooded lugs which were popular during this period. The case is made in solid 14ct yellow gold and has been exceedingly well cared for and is free from scratches, dings or engraving. At 21mm width, excluding the crown and 39mm in length, this is a large-sized watch case for the period. Inside the case-back all is as should be found and signed ‘LONGINES’ with 14ct hallmarks and 14K. The serial number 5615786 is shown on the outside of the case-back and this is also engraved on the movement. The case has been cleaned and lightly polished and is in superb condition showing only the very slightest signs of wear.
Please note, the mark on the side of the case more or less aligned to the 8 on the dial is a hallmark and not a ding or dimple.
As ever, our standard advice applies: vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.
The Movement
As can be seen, the movement is in very clean condition considering its age. This is the original Cal. 25.17 bi-metallic split balance, 15 Jewels movement. This movement was state of the art in the 1930s. It is signed ‘Longines’, Cal.25.17, and numbered 5615786, dating the watch to 1937.
This watch has been well maintained and we have just given it a full inspection and service and so we are happy to offer the watch with a 12 months warranty.* With care and with regular servicing, say every 3 to 4 years, we would fully expect this watch to run quite happily for many more years to come.
Our watchmaker commented that he found the movement to be very clean and confirmed it has been properly maintained and there are no non-original parts. Following the service, he has calibrated the movement as usual and during our final checks including testing the watch for accuracy on our electronic test instrument we found the watch to be keeping time within 14 seconds per day.
We will be very happy to take care of future servicing for you.
*Please note – our 12 months’ warranty is only applicable if the full list price is paid.
The Strap & Buckle
A high quality, dark brown padded camel grain leather strap is fitted with a gold plated buckle. If you have a preference for another colour or a different style of leather we will be pleased to change it for you.
The Box and Papers
Although there are no original papers with this watch, all the numbers and markings on the watch are correct, dating the watch to 1937. A detailed written receipt with 12 months’ warranty* and a separate insurance valuation for the replacement value will be provided at the time of sale along with our unique ‘Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee’ which states: “If this watch proves to be anything less than totally authentic, or not as described, Vintage Gold Watches of London will offer you a full refund at any time”.
The watch comes complete with a vintage Longines presentation box, as shown.
In Conclusion
This is a really beautiful 1930s Art-Deco vintage gold watch from Longines, one of the most highly honoured and awarded Swiss watch manufacturers. It is to the credit of the company that this watch is still perfectly useable and reliable, just as it was when it left the factory 80 years ago!
This rare (particularly in this condition), beautiful and highly collectable vintage gold watch which will provide an excellent financial investment as well as something to use, wear, treasure and enjoy!
We are happy to accept PayPal as this is the quickest method of payment. However, if you would like to pay by UK cheque or by UK bank transfer we will be pleased to assist you with this and pass on a 3% saving to you. Similarly, if you wish to pay by International SWIFT or Bank Wire Transfer we will provide you with our BIC / Swift number and our IBAN number.
If you have any questions please call us on 0207 727 7095 or if calling from overseas on +44 207 727 7095. We await your call and we will be happy to help with any questions you may have about this watch or any of our collection.
Please note, we also welcome part exchanges. We will also be happy to service your vintage watch or assist with repairs or restoration as necessary.
Please also take a look at our other fine vintage gold watches.
Andrew M via feefo 
3rd December 2024 
JLC1891 
